Laws on what is needed to become a licensed wildlife rehabilitator vary from state to state. There is no "formal" education that is needed although many states require experience working under a licensed rehabber for a certain amount of time. Some states also require passing an exam before being licensed to care for injured/orphaned wildlife.
If you are interested in this field, the BEST place to start is to find a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area and volunteer with them for awhile. This way, you will learn what is involved in wildlife rehabilitation along with its many joys and heartaches. Please be aware that it is very hard work with often long hours and that MOST rehabbers work strictly on a volunteer basis. There are SOME centers in the country that do have paid positions, but most are volunteer. There are many wildlife rehabbers who operate from their own home, others who have combined to operate small centers, and others that have very large centers with paid staff. Try to find one of these centers and ask about becoming a volunteer. That is the first place to start.
Next, it would be VERY wise to join one or both of the national wildlife rehabilitation organizations. The both offer a LOT of information and resources for wildlife rehabilitators and those interested in pursuing education in this area. They also offer training classes in basic wildlife rehabilitation (and more advanced classes too) around the country so be sure to check out there information.
National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA)
International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC)
Also visit the following site to get more information about careers in wildlife rehabilitation (written by the NWRA). http://www.nwrawildlife.org/careers/main.asp
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